Soybean Meal in Pet Food

Grade D-4 ptsLegumes

What It Is

"The protein-rich residue left after oil is extracted from soybeans."

Health Impact

Extracting the oil leaves behind a concentrated protein meal — cheap and high in crude protein on paper, but soy protein has a weaker amino acid profile for dogs and cats than named animal protein, and it carries the same allergen risk as any other soy derivative. A filler-protein used to inflate the label's protein percentage affordably. Score: 2/10.

Why This Grade

A meaningful red flag: an unnamed source, heavy processing into a by-product or digest form, or documented regulatory scrutiny in at least one country. -4 pts deducted.

Sources & Further Reading

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Soybean Meal safe for dogs and cats?

Rated D (-4 pts) by PetPro-tectors™. Extracting the oil leaves behind a concentrated protein meal — cheap and high in crude protein on paper, but soy protein has a weaker amino acid profile for dogs and cats than named animal protein, and it carries the same allergen risk as any other soy derivative. A filler-protein used to inflate the label's protein percentage affordably. Score: 2/10.

What is Soybean Meal in pet food?

The protein-rich residue left after oil is extracted from soybeans.

Related Legumes Ingredients

ChickpeasLentilsBlack BeansPinto Beans
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Sources: FDA, AAFCO Official Publication, National Toxicology Program,
WSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines, Journal of Animal Science.

PetPro-tection League™